BMW is marking the 25th anniversary of the X5 in 2024. Now in its fourth generation, it has long been renowned for combining elegant styling, luxurious yet functional interiors, responsive powertrains and sports car-like driving dynamics.
Its success is reflected in high sales volumes, with more than three million sold globally (75,000 in Australia) since it was introduced here at the end of 2000. This ranks the X5 as the second best-selling BMW down under – behind the 3 Series (VFACTS).
Manufactured in South Carolina, it is built alongside other BMW X line models such as the X3, X4, X6 and X7. Now, armed with a history lesson from the German car maker, we’re taking a look back at its evolution, from then to now.
The first X5, which debuted at the North American International Auto Show in 1999, immediately made an impression. It showcased a classic BMW styling package, responsive in-line six and potent V8 petrol engines.
It also featured all-wheel drive for multi-surface adventures and a monocoque chassis for supreme driver engagement. From that reveal, the X5 was launched, and gained even more popularity in Australia with the introduction of a diesel engine variant.
A manual transmission was also available at the time. Several years later, the second-generation, introduced here in 2007, delivered advancements, including a third row of seats. It also saw the model debut of the BMW iDrive system.
That formed part of a major upgrade to the interior, alongside a high-definition centre mounted display and vast improvements to cabin materials and appointments. Other innovations introduced for the X5 at this time included active steering.
It was joined by AdaptiveDrive (anti-roll stability and adaptive dampers), as well as a head-up display. In 2010, BMW Australia introduced the X5 M. That brought the dynamics and capability of a low-slung coupé to a high riding SUV.
By the time the third-generation model arrived in late 2013, the BMW X5 had firmly established itself in locally. The new model introduced a lower entry point; the sDrive25d. It was the first X5 to offer a 4-cylinder engine and two-wheel drive.
A refined design featured both inside and out, headlined by a redesigned kidney grille and new adaptive LED headlights. Now longer, wider and slightly lower, it had a strong road presence. It also offered more cargo capacity.
Technology improvements included a new 10.25-inch central display linked to the BMW iDrive controller, while it was also the first time a plug-in hybrid powertrain was offered. The fourth generation BMW X5 was launched in November 2018.
It raised the bar, with the introduction of Operating System 7, level two autonomous technology and the camera-based driver assistance system. Dimensions were increased to provide a larger cabin.
Highly efficient diesels continued in the drivetrain stable, alongside the straight six petrol turbo option. Other variants would be added later, including an enhanced plug-in hybrid, and the latest X5 M – this time wearing the Competition badge.
Expanded towing capacity to 3.5-tonnes and the addition of further engine variants underlined the scope and capability of the BMW X5 and its suitability for the Australian market. A mid-life update in 2023 added new touches.
This includes a curved display running Operating System 8 – and 48-volt mild hybrid engine technology. While still offering plenty of capability, the BMW X5 has also provided a test platform to develop powertrains of the future.
That’s especially so in the case of BMW’s first fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that will go into series production in 2028.
